Solar (US)

Though he's been DJing for two decades now, until recently you would have been forgiven for not knowing who Solar was if you lived outside California. Now you'll find him touring Europe and recording mixes for respected outfits like Beats In Space and Dekmantel. It just took a little time for him to get there. A Bay Area staple since the mid-'90s, Solar played a pivotal role in the region's clubbing scene. With close friends like Galen and Conor, he's thrown outdoor events and camping festivals under the Sunset Sound System banner as well as a host of other parties, including No Way Back. Over that time spent honing his craft,in opening slots and Sunday night residencies, Solar earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues, including Justin Martin, who called Solar his favourite DJ: "he never ceases to blow my mind," he said.